LAHORE – Air pollution across Punjab has reached alarming levels, triggering a surge in respiratory and throat-related illnesses, health officials reported on Sunday. Hospitals in major cities, including Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, are witnessing a sharp rise in patients suffering from cough, sore throat, and breathing difficulties.
Environmental experts attributed the worsening conditions to prolonged dry weather and increasing smog, intensified by the absence of rainfall. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast continued dry conditions in the coming days, which could further deteriorate air quality.
Read More: Pakistan Uses Anti-Smog Guns to Fight Air Pollution in Lahore
According to the latest data, Gujranwala recorded the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) at 562, followed by Faisalabad at 436, Multan at 344, and Bahawalpur at 208. In Lahore, the average AQI stood at a hazardous 388, with specific areas reporting even higher readings — Ravi Road at 749, Allama Iqbal Town at 539, Township at 500, and Gulberg III at 571.
Health authorities have urged citizens to stay indoors, minimize outdoor activities during morning and evening hours, and wear protective masks to reduce exposure.
Read More: Lahore tops global pollution chart as smog worsens
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has intensified its anti-smog campaign, deploying smog guns, inspecting factories, and monitoring brick kiln emissions. Despite these efforts, experts warn that without sustained rainfall and stricter environmental enforcement, the smog crisis could worsen in the coming weeks.